September 22, 2010

Report from Taiji: September 22

Very early this morning, September 22, 2010, about 20 dolphins were herded into the cove at Taiji and locked behind nets. We kept an eye on the cove all day, but no other dolphins were brought in. The hunter boats gave up the search for more and called it a day.

The fishermen kept a strong vigil at the cove all day to ensure that no one released the dolphins. The police and Japanese Coast Guard also had officers on site. There are guards at the cove this night.

We can hear the dolphins breathing hard and slapping their tails on the water from time to time. They are in constant motion in the small space. The moon is near full and there is quite a bit of light.

We had to say farewell to Dwight and Sandra this morning. We were quite pleased though to meet Sonja and her two sons, Matthew 15, and Robin 13, at the cove today. Sonja is Dutch and her two sons are Swiss. They came to Taiji because they had heard about the slaughter here. They will be staying a few days.

Sonja, Matthew, Robin, and Elora under the watchful eyes of fishermen guards

This is the fourth capture of the season. Two have resulted in the release of dolphins not selected for the aquarium trade and one resulted in the death of them all. We do not know what will happen to these dolphins, but we will be there in the morning to document what comes.

For those who may be considering joining us, but are dealing with obstacles, I suggest you read Tarah’s blog. She has it covered.

We need your help now more than ever. Spread the word, send donations, join in the protest, and if at all possible, come join us here in Taiji. To join us (voluntarily, and completely at your own cost and risk) in Taiji, write to me at inform-us@seashepherd.org. I will get back to you, but please be patient. I cannot keep an eye on the Cove and answer email at the same time.